AN opening date has been revealed for the new state-of-the-art veterinary hospital coming to Basildon.

The Southfield Veterinary Specialists hospital will be opening its doors for the first time on Tuesday, August 30.

Bosses confirmed the build is nearly completed, and is one of the largest, and best-equipped veterinary referral centres in not only UK, but in Europe too.

The new hospital costs around £16 million and is around 42,000 square feet.

It will have an innovative cancer treatment facility, full diagnostic suites, 24/7 emergency referral service, seven operating theatres, recovery suites, an ICU, and 14 consultation rooms.

There will also be 180 kennels, including 163 for dogs and 17 for cats.

Within that there will be separate cat and dog entrance and waiting areas, dedicated cat treatment facility, walking and comfort areas for patients, and separate dog and car exercise areas.

A spokesman for Southfield Veterinary Specialists said: “Our new hospital is opening in August and will provide one of the largest and best-equipped multi-disciplinary veterinary referral centres in not only the UK, but also throughout Europe.

“Our new building is designed to make our patients feel at ease.

“We have devoted a huge amount of time, and effort into making sure our new site will be as welcoming and accessible as possible.”